Customizing Your Space

We’re sharing our best practices for layering tile to show you how you can take your space to the next level. The look below incorporates a combination of trim pieces and mosaics to transform a simple picture frame into an exquisite focal point.

Since this bathroom uses the Firenze Carrara marble collection throughout, the untrained eye may see it as quite simple. Look carefully at the transitions, and see if you can identify how many trim pieces are actually used to accomplish this sophisticated design.

Incorporating different shapes and sizes from the same tile collection can carry this elevated look through to other areas of the room, such as the backsplash, half wall and shower (photo top left). By sourcing all of the pieces of a collection from the same stone quarry, each piece complements the others for stunning variation that isn’t overbearing. If you have a focal point, repeat the same design element in other areas, like a shower niche (photo top right).

Thoughtful Transitioning

It’s important to think about how each part of your space will work together to form a unified environment. Utilizing trim pieces between different materials, sizes, shapes and textures of tile can create the perfect transition.

Dimensional tile can create dramatic depth and texture, but it can also leave an uneven edge when paired with other selections (top left photo). Incorporating transitional trim pieces will offer a seamless solution from one style to the next. Similarly, they can be used on the floor to separate different areas within a space – the top right photo displays a subtle transition, while the photo below incorporates durable curb pieces for a more prominent separation from shower to floor.

For tiles that vary in size, double up somersets and run them vertically for the greatest impact.

Using transitions is also the perfect way to emphasize an accent tile in your design. In the photo below, layered trim pieces instantly elevate the Brushed Bronze with Glass Metal Mosaic backsplash, while coordinating beautifully with the surrounding ceramic subway tile.

Each trim piece has its own unique characteristics that make it perfect for specific uses.

Coordinating Finishes

Pictured below is an example of how trim and profile pieces can provide an opportunity to coordinate with fixtures. In cases where there’s no need for a transition or storage solution, metal profiles can be used in between tiles as a unique accent that can coordinate with other design elements, such as faucets or lighting.

Layering trim and profile pieces can make every tile design better by adding dimension and interest. It shows that the design has been thoughtfully curated and has the finishing touches that elevate the space from basic to beautiful.

When And Where To Layer Tile

4 Design Plans With Layered Tile

Need ideas for your next remodel? Here are a few examples of design plans that incorporate tile trim and profile pieces. Bring them into your local store or schedule a design consultation to discuss dimensions, quantity, styles and more.

Learn more about layering in our comprehensive guide to trim and accessories. Ready for the next step? Schedule a design consultation with a tile design expert today!

The post Guide To Layering Tile Trim And Profiles appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

White walls, minimal decor, subtle colors—you won’t find any of these in a maximalist space! Some people say that less is more, but maximalists believe the opposite. More color, more texture, and more boldness define this style. Simplistic, neutral design has reigned for years, and, inevitably, some people are ready for a change. Say hello to maximalism.

Contrary to what you might think, maximalism is more than just having a lot of stuff. Some of the hallmarks of maximalist design are:

• Patterns and prints
• Bold colors
• Ornateness
• Layering
• Lots of textures
• Artwork (especially different styles and mismatched frames!)
• Mixing design styles, like boho (it shares a common theme of excess), English, vintage, mid-century modern, Victorian and art deco
• Books, books and more books

The style is an updated twist on classically exuberant English interiors updated for the 21st century with bright colors, contemporary patterns and modern accents. The legendary club Annabel’s in London perfectly embodies this blend of classic Britishness and modern maximalism.

So, what do we love about maximalism? It allows you to express every side of your personality at once. If you’ve ever felt torn between styles or couldn’t define yours in one word, maximalism may be for you. (Indecisive friends, unite!) This design style allows you the freedom to fill your home with items that you love, instead of worrying about fitting them into a style box. Loving your decor is key—random items will not bring the same joy as a personalized, curated collection.

Enough talking about maximalism—let’s see some of our favorite looks! As far as maximalist designs go, this one is pretty minimal! (Stay with us.) The bold, patterned tile and dramatic color scheme definitely fit the style, yet the symmetry of the space and overall glam theme reign in it.

This bathroom takes boho-chic to the next level with a bright geometric tiled floor and lots of fabulous decor pieces. Black accents throughout the room (can we talk about that chandelier?!) bring cohesion to the space without dulling it down. This gorgeous transformation took place in just six weeks as part of the Fall 2019 One Room Challenge™.

We couldn’t just share one photo of the home that sparked the idea for this blog post! House Beautiful’s 2019 Kitchen of the Year was a maximalist dream come true with no explanation needed. Read our spotlight on Michelle Nussbaumer’s amazing design for more photos of the space.

This kitchen is a good reminder that each surface is an opportunity to create a work of art.

A much different approach to maximalism, this bathroom establishes a blue-grey color palette and sticks to it while varying the tone and playing with patterns.

This bright and colorful bathroom proves that maximalism doesn’t have to be dark and dramatic.

Back to the drama, an art-inspired tile is perfect for creating an accent wall that makes a statement.

Multiple patterns work hand in hand when they pull from the same warm color palette in this beautiful bathroom that was also featured in the One Room Challenge.

Maximalist spaces don’t need to hit every hallmark on our list. Here, an oversized, bold pattern is enough to stand out.

Another One Room Challenge contender was this glamorous gold-and-black laundry room. The opulence just draws you in (which is good when you’re trying to force yourself to do the laundry!)

Here’s another case of a stand-alone maximalist tile. The vivacious purple veining in this Milas Lilac marble tile collection and the mix of shapes deliver dynamic style.

Dip your toe into maximalism by just choosing one extra-bold feature.

Drama, patterns, metallic finishes and more—as they say with maximalism, more is more.

Feeling inspired to paint your grey walls fuchsia yet? Whatever your design goals are, we’re here to help you achieve them. Schedule a design consultation with an in-store tile expert to get started. And don’t forget—sometimes more is more!

The post Maximalism: More is More appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

Contrasting Colors

Boldly contrasting colors are a sure way to make a big impact. Dark and light tones play off of each other, making each stand out even more. Below, the dark backdrop also serves to highlight the sleek lines of the contemporary tub.

Contrast goes glam with this dramatic display that plays up sumptuous style.

Contrast can be created with color combinations beyond black and white. In a warmer take on the style, a wood-look floor balances grey and white walls with tons of welcoming textures.

Monochromatic Mix

If you’re dreaming of a clean monochromatic color palette, try incorporating different finishes, sizes, shapes or materials on the walls and floors. This adds dimension, texture and interest to a design while keeping it clean. You can also include functional and safety features this way. Here, a glossy ceramic wall tile is an easy-to-clean option that protects the backsplash from spills. The coordinating porcelain floor tile is durable and transitions between the surfaces smoothly in the same soft grey color palette.

“People always ask me, ‘If I use ceramic on the floor, don’t I have to use it on the walls?’ The answer is no! Mixing it up creates a more interesting space.”—Kirsty Froelich, Tile Shop design manager

This space demonstrates a perfect example of using mixed materials (also known as “fusion.”) With ceramic wall tile, porcelain shower wall tile, porcelain floor tile and marble trim pieces, all of these different materials unite in a cohesive way and in a monochromatic color palette to portray a serene spa bathroom.

We love how these floor and wall tiles are so different from one another in finish, shape, size and material yet coordinate flawlessly. The space works because the color palette is soft and neutral and hints of organic materials add warmth and interest.

Here, the similar polished finish of the ceramic subway wall tile and the marble shower pan tile unifies the shower’s style. A framed marble mosaic is an added touch of elegance—fusion at its finest!

Varying the shape of your wall and floor tiles is another way to add interest in a monochromatic design. From the mix of porcelain and ceramic to the distinct shapes, there is so much to entice the eye in this cream laundry room!

This is a great example of fusion. The materials on the walls and floor could not be more different, consisting of real wood, wood-look porcelain and a slate and porcelain mosaic, but they all have a similar rich hue that ties them together.

Coordinated Collections

One of the easiest ways to ensure your design flows together is using the same collection or series on walls and floors. One of the great things about The Tile Shop’s stone collections is the sheer number of different shape, size and trim options. Collections are also sourced from the same quarry, so, while no two pieces are ever the same due to natural variation, you never have to worry about different tiles coordinating.

This space uses the same stone, Milas Lilac, on every surface, so there’s no fear about the tiles not coordinating. By using many different shapes (we’re not even sure we can count them all!), distinct zones are established, subtly distinguishing the shower from the vanity area.

To make designing a coordinated space even easier, we’ve extended it beyond stone. Our proprietary Fired Earth ceramic and porcelain collections, like the Carrara Gris floor tile below, coordinate with our marble collections, too. This makes adding a special designer touch even easier. Handmade Weekly elevates her fusion design beautifully here, with a marble-look ceramic tile and a unique statement marble mosaic. Marble trims polish the look to perfection.

Patterns That Pop

One of our most popular wall and floor tile combinations is patterned and non-patterned tile. For the bold at heart, there’s nothing better than an accent wall or floor brimming with striking shapes. Paired with a neutral color, the overall effect is delightful. This hexagon shape, duplicated in the floor tile, garners just enough attention to set this shower apart.

Here, a boldly patterned floor is softened with a coordinating, neutral wall tile.

White subway tile plus a bold, old-world style encaustic is always a good idea.

Tone on Tone

One sure way to demonstrate a cohesive look between floors and walls is to pick a neutral or color from one surface and use it on the other. The soft grey wall tiles below perfectly reflect the same mottled grey in the pattered floor.

The unique ombre effect on this Annie Selke floor tile presents the opportunity to pull two different colors onto the wall design.

This concept does not have to be all or nothing. A hint of color, like the beachy brown in the floor tile that’s also found in the chevron stripe on the wall and shower, goes a long way towards tying this room together.

This kitchen plays with a number of different colors, but choosing the backsplash subway tile in hue plucked from the floor tile ensures that the space feels cohesive.

Multiple patterns can get tricky but this space strikes a perfect balance. Surrounding this floral art glass splashback with a neutral frame and a subway tile in a color that is duplicated in the floor tile, the patterns do not compete.

Eclectic

Rules are made to be broken, right? Sometimes a design that doesn’t follow any of these rules or even breaks them just works. Here are some of our favorite eclectic combinations that don’t follow the guidelines. Here, pattern, wood look and a bold subway tile create the perfect modern farmhouse nook.

Bold geometric shapes on the walls and floors and exaggerated contrast?! This look is bold, but the black-and-white palette keeps it clean.

Here’s another example of a bold pattern paired with multiple colors. The grey color is reflected in the patterned tile, and the wood-look floor acts as a neutral that balances the space.

There are dozens of different wall and floor tile combinations. It just depends on your desired overall effect—whether it’s eye-catching contrast, calm coordination or eclectic patterns. Ready to take the next step? Schedule a design consultation or stop into a store to talk to a tile expert and get started!

The post Tried-and-True Wall and Floor Tile Combinations appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

Hallmarks

A few of the clues that you might be looking at contemporary design are:

• A minimalistic feel
• Clean colors, often neutrals
• Hidden or integrated appliances and features
• An emphasis on natural light
• Flat-panel cabinetry
• European cabinet pulls or no hardware
• Stainless steel
• Recessed and pendant lighting
• Artistic elements

Accessories can go a long way towards establishing a contemporary theme in your space. The furniture, decor and accessories above are composed of contemporary finishes, materials and lines. We especially love how the funky chandelier sets the scene and distinguishes this dining space. Check out some more of our favorite contemporary lighting below. You’ll see that most of these fixtures display multiple qualities from the list above.

Tile Style

This design style is somewhat unique in that not only can tiles be worked into your contemporary design, but tiles can display contemporary style in and of themselves.

Some characteristics of contemporary tiles are:

• Large format
• Sculptural
• Straight stack vs. brick layout
• Stainless steel (like in a mixed-materials mosaic)
• Simple profiles with clean edges
• Art-inspired elements
• Geometric shapes

Myriad different tiles can facilitate contemporary style, and this is just a short list. Scroll to the bottom of this blog post to view some of our favorite contemporary tiles.

Along with a sleek, contemporary chandelier and tub, these wall tiles are perfect examples of this style. They are sculptural, artistic and bold.

There are a few contemporary elements to note in this space: the artwork, sleek furniture, an unadorned fireplace and a geometric patterned rug.

Just like tile and lighting, furniture can display contemporary characteristics all on its own. If you are thinking of decorating in this style, consider items like the below.

The shower above is an embellished and glamorous take on contemporary. The large-format tiles, squared-off trim pieces and sleek hardware are all indicators that it is contemporary. In the close-up below, the square and straight edges of the trim pieces are more visible. As opposed to an ornate or rounded piece of trim, these finish the installation without adding any extra adornment, keeping the look minimal and sleek.

Here are a few more contemporary trim pieces with squared-off edges and clean lines that work well in this design style. Read more about layering and trims on our blog post.

Below, neutrals and unadorned cabinetry make this space contemporary. A honed finish on the marble-look tiles and bright wood vanity warm the room up.

From the minimal, artistic decor to the sculptural, monochromatic wall tiles, this fireplace is thoroughly contemporary from top to bottom.

Sculptural tiles are not only perfect for contemporary design, but they’re also a big trend right now. Explore some of our favorites below.

Below, tones of tan and beige running through the veins of the floor tile add warmth to an all-white bathroom.

The painterly effect created by gold brush strokes turns your walls into a work of art.

Over the all-white kitchen trend? This one features crisp white tile but is also injected with lots of warm tones, balancing the best of both worlds and making this space cozy and welcoming. The flat-front cabinets, minimal (almost hidden!) hardware and sleek, clean lines are all very contemporary.

While contemporary style can be warm and inviting like in the kitchen above, it can also be dramatic and moody, as seen with the 3-D geometric tile below. That’s one thing we love about this style—it’s so versatile!

Contemporary style lends itself to self-expression. The amazing installation below is a custom mosaic created from tile and metal trim. We have a feeling the homeowners love this as much as we do.

Coziness and warmth are the words that come to mind when we see the bathroom below. While maintaining contemporary style, the designers have seamlessly combined multiple different shades of warm tans and browns.

Ready to give contemporary a try? Browse the style on our website and start dreaming.

The post Stay Up-to-Date With This Current Style appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

Florals for spring…groundbreaking, right?! When it comes to tile, thankfully floral designs are perfect year-round. These flourishing patterns can rejuvenate a dreary bathroom, or create a welcoming entryway. Immerse yourself into our collection of fresh florals, and find the right pattern to express your individuality.

Floral-Printed Tile

Prominent or slightly subdued, floral designs have existed in numerous trends throughout the decades. There is something classic about a picture-perfect nature scene that people continue to incorporate in their home and clothing designs over the years.

Notice the beautified shower wall in the bathroom above. The gorgeous flower print on Fabola Blu makes it a perfect accent wall. The tile’s white base allows it to seamlessly unite with the white walls in the bathroom.

Just like florals, glass tiles beautifully add an element of glam to your space. Three of our designer collaborations include blossoming prints to brighten any design.

Annie Selke Collection

Some of our most exciting tiles come from the Annie Selke Art Glass collection. These large-format tiles rejoice with vibrant positive feeling.

Laura Ashley Collection

Not every floral patterned tile has to be a bold display of color. Our Laura Ashley glass splash backs make perfect botanical backsplashes year-round. The gorgeous silhouette scene displayed before adds a touch of elegance to this kitchen.

Turn your backsplash into a peaceful meadow view with this blissful glass tile.

Ted Baker Collection

The Ted Baker collection stands out with its natural beauty. These tiles can cater to multiple styles with either tropical and oriental floral prints. Ted Baker Tropical offers four luscious patterns in two muted shades of grey. Install Ted Baker Flight of the Orient to incorporate Chinoiserie inspiration. Chinoiserie is the European imitation of Chinese and East Asian decorative styles, arts and nature scenes.

Floral-Inspired Patterns

From bold, colorful movement to soft, subtle detailing, these next patterned tiles display a flowerbed of inspiration. Floral-inspired patterns encompass prominent geometric shapes but still have an organic appearance.

The front entrance is the gateway to your home—make the most of your design, and display a lively pattern. The elevating blue tones in Riordan will make any entrance a welcoming one.

While Star Olive/Grey was made for both walls and floor, this tile is the furthest thing from an ordinary wallflower. The geometric pattern displayed on the booth above resembles energetic green flower petals. This boldly designed tile is perfect for making an impact in spaces made for entertaining.

This blossom-covered bathroom floor has the perfect amount of old-world charm. Notice Lacy’s modern coloring and vintage weathered look. Take a look at more of our stunning floral-inspired tiles.

Reflect a statement of luxury with Annie Selke Tulip. This elegant piece of art was created by our product designer manager, Brandy Janke. Notice Tulip’s delicate limestone and mother-of-pearl detailing.

“I was inspired by Annie Selke to create this mosaic. It’s all about bringing natural elements together into one tile.” —Brandy Janke, product designer manager

The elegant hexagon shape in our final image below creates a gorgeous, subtle, flower-like pattern. This design is great for coordinating with black and white marble spaces.

Don’t be afraid to incorporate a blossoming design into your home. Floral patterns aren’t just meant for your grandmother’s vintage sofa. Find a soft pattern for you kitchen floor or follow your instincts and cover your kitchen backsplash with a breathtaking scene.

The post Rejuvenate with Florals appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

The Announcement

Confession: We’ve been keeping a secret for the past year. And we couldn’t be more thrilled that the time has come when we can finally share it with you. The Tile Shop and Annie Selke have partnered to create an exclusive collection of more than 200 tiles that will be launching in January 2019.

“I love color, I love pattern, I love textiles. In this collaboration, we’ve taken the beauty of textiles and translated it to tile.”—Annie Selke

Brandy Janke, Tile Shop product designer, and Annie Selke

A true collaboration from the very beginning, this collection has been a labor of love for over a year. Using many of Annie’s fabrics, rugs and patterns as inspiration as well as developing new products and finishes, The Tile Shop’s product design team and the Annie Selke team created an array of tiles featuring inspired and original patterns and textures made with brand-new manufacturing techniques.

“We built a great relationship with Annie, and we saw how inspirational she is as a person. There was a great opportunity there to create a different kind of tile product.”—Brandy Janke, Tile Shop product designer

The Collection

The result is a comprehensive collection featuring coordinating substories that speak to different design trends, colors and patterns. From bold and bright to feminine and subtle, this diverse collection has something for everyone—especially fans of Annie Selke’s textiles that want to translate a look from the soft textures of a bedroom or living room into the hard surfaces of a kitchen or bathroom.

“The Tile Shop’s expertise in all things tile coupled with our expertise in fabrics and textiles has led to an extraordinary collaboration and a collection I can’t wait for everyone to see.”—Annie Selke

The Event

To celebrate the collection and introduce it to the design community, The Tile Shop and Annie Selke hosted a launch party in October in the fashion capital of the country, New York City. There, influencers, media and special guests previewed the collection and mingled with both teams to hear firsthand about what inspired the designs.

“Annie is very creative. She has a little bit of a girly flair, a feminine touch, and that’s how we design, too, so it’s a perfect meeting of the minds for us.”—Bria Hammel of Bria Hammel Interiors

Preview the collection on our website and sign up for emails to be notified when the collection launches. Check back on the blog to stay up to date on everything The Tile Shop.

The post Annie Selke + The Tile Shop Collaboration Announcement appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

Every once in a while we get the opportunity to collaborate with a celebrated designer brand to create tiles that are a unique blend of fashion and function. It was a thrill for us to get the chance to work with Laura Ashley, the iconic design house famous for romantic British designs and prints. And now we’re sharing the beautiful results of our collaboration with you!

Our Laura Ashley collaboration has both glass splashbacks and porcelain wall and floor tiles. The eight patterned splashbacks (no, that’s not a typo—it’s a very British term that we love!) are large-format, single pieces of tempered glass. They protect walls from splashes, clean up easily and add interest to your walls. We love how easily these splashbacks create a colorful focal point on a kitchen backsplash with just one tile. Available in both soft and bold colors, these patterns are based on historic prints from the Laura Ashley archive. You can read more about the inspiration behind the prints here.

The four different porcelain wall and floor tiles come in a variety of grey tones. They’re perfect for creating soft, subtle patterns that are easy to coordinate with cabinets, fixtures and other decor. The patterns are the perfect complement to a neutral room or a beautiful base to set off pops of color. Also based on prints from the Laura Ashley archive, these designs have a timeless appeal.

Whimsical or traditional, subtle or bold, fall in love with the timeless British appeal of the Laura Ashley series.

The post The Laura Ashley Collection appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.